Parton is among a group of Grammy Special Merit Award winners that includes Julie Andrews, Roy Haynes, the Juilliard String Quartet, The Kingston Trio, the Ramones, George Beverly Shea, Al Bell, Wilma Cozart Fine, Bruce Lundvall, Roger Linn and Waves Audio.

“It is a great honor to recognize and celebrate such a distinguished and dynamic group of honorees who have been the creators of such timeless art,” said Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow in a statement.

Known for hits including “Coat Of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You” and “9 To 5,” Parton has been a leader on the Nashville music scene for more than four decades.